Cruiserhttp://www.skinet.com/ski/taxonomy/term/70438/%252Ffeed
enPeople's Ski Test 2010, Dynastarhttp://www.skinet.com/ski/galleries/peoples-ski-test-2010-dynastar?lnk=rss&loc=cruiser
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<div class="image"><img src="http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/imagecache/enlarged_image/_images/201001/Dynastar%20Contact%204x4.jpg" alt="Contact 4x4 (2010)" title="" width="1000" height="1000" class="imagecache imagecache-enlarged_image"/></div>
<div class="photo_credit">Photo by: <span>SKI Magazine Editor</span></div>
<h4 class="title">Contact 4x4 (2010)</h4>
<div class="caption">Score: 37.00<br />Comments:<br />“Felt like the designer knew where I was going to ski, no matter where I went, from groomers to bumps to crud or ice.” Jim George<br />“Made me nervous at speed. Nice short quick turns. Should be fun in the bumps.” Steve Follen<br />“Quick-turning. Felt like I was skiing on a shorter ski than it was. Very lively.” Fred Ostrove<br />“Good carving ski. Not as burly as some of the other skis tested today, but it’s fun. Stable at speed for both short and long radius turns.” TJ DeSantis<br />“Very fast edge-to-edge. Nimble. Push it and it goes.” Imants</div>
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<div class="image"><img src="http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/imagecache/enlarged_image/_images/201001/Dyn_Exclusive%20Legend%20Eden.jpg" alt="Exclusive Legend Eden (2010)" title="" width="1000" height="1000" class="imagecache imagecache-enlarged_image"/></div>
<div class="photo_credit">Photo by: <span>SKI Magazine Editor</span></div>
<h4 class="title">Exclusive Legend Eden (2010)</h4>
<div class="caption">Score: 26.6<br />“Love to rock back and forth and rip big turns. Fun.” Heather Burke<br />“Comfortable, stable, fun. You have to go fast to get a nice rebound. Love it, but want more rebound. Nice ice-hold. Reliable even in flat light on last run of day.” Liz O’Mara<br />“Great on steeps and on ice and hardpack.” Fischburg</div>
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http://www.skinet.com/ski/galleries/peoples-ski-test-2010-dynastar#commentsCompetitionGearAlpineSkisSpeedCruiserDynastarGear Photosski testDynastarCURRENT_SITE106180http://www.skinet.com/CURRENT_SITE/files/_images/201001/Dyn_Exclusive Legend Eden.jpg106182Exclusive Legend Eden (2010)
<p>Score: 26.6<br />“Love to rock back and forth and rip big turns. Fun.” Heather Burke<br />“Comfortable, stable, fun. You have to go fast to get a nice rebound. Love it, but want more rebound. Nice ice-hold. Reliable even in flat light on last run of day.” Liz O’Mara<br />“Great on steeps and on ice and hardpack.” Fischburg</p>
Women testers gravitated toward the Exclusive Legend, and enduring favorite of the Dynastar women’s collection. The men (and one or two women) favored the Contact 4X4, another Dynastar classic that, with its 74 waist, is a likely bet for Easterners.
Among skis that got enough test runs for a valid result, here are the rankings:
gallery106181http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/_images/201001/Dynastar Contact 4x4.jpgContact 4x4 (2010)
<p>Score: 37.00<br />Comments:<br />“Felt like the designer knew where I was going to ski, no matter where I went, from groomers to bumps to crud or ice.” Jim George<br />“Made me nervous at speed. Nice short quick turns. Should be fun in the bumps.” Steve Follen<br />“Quick-turning. Felt like I was skiing on a shorter ski than it was. Very lively.” Fred Ostrove<br />“Good carving ski. Not as burly as some of the other skis tested today, but it’s fun. Stable at speed for both short and long radius turns.” TJ DeSantis<br />“Very fast edge-to-edge. Nimble. Push it and it goes.” Imants<br />“Sticks to the snow. Great carver. Very nice!” Greg Burke<br />“Skied a shorter pair yesterday and didn’t trust them at speed. Got the right length today: very stable, nice ski!” Steve Follen</p>
106182http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/_images/201001/Dyn_Exclusive Legend Eden.jpgExclusive Legend Eden (2010)
<p>Score: 26.6<br />“Love to rock back and forth and rip big turns. Fun.” Heather Burke<br />“Comfortable, stable, fun. You have to go fast to get a nice rebound. Love it, but want more rebound. Nice ice-hold. Reliable even in flat light on last run of day.” Liz O’Mara<br />“Great on steeps and on ice and hardpack.” Fischburg</p>
Fri, 01 Jan 2010 17:32:33 +0000kimberlyjaibeekman106180 at http://www.skinet.com/skiPeople's Ski Test 2010, Blizzardhttp://www.skinet.com/ski/galleries/peoples-ski-test-2010-blizzard?lnk=rss&loc=cruiser
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<div class="photo_credit">Photo by: <span>SKI Magazine Editor</span></div>
<h4 class="title">G-Force Supersonic (2010)</h4>
<div class="caption">Score: 41.80<p>Comments:</p><p>“Loved it. Seemed like it could do anything.” <br />“Loved this ski. Does it all.” R. Cleary<br />“Energetic, but very stable. A pleasure to ride.” Michael Bradley<br />“Best Ski Ever. Does everything. (Well, no powder here.) Great!” R. Cleary (Day 2)<br /><br /></p></div>
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<div class="image"><img src="http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/imagecache/enlarged_image/_images/200912/Blizz_Magnum_8.1.jpg" alt="Magnum 8.1 (2010)" title="" width="1000" height="1000" class="imagecache imagecache-enlarged_image"/></div>
<div class="photo_credit">Photo by: <span>SKI Magazine Editor</span></div>
<h4 class="title">Magnum 8.1 (2010)</h4>
<div class="caption">Score: 33.85<p>Comments:<br />“Great all-around ski. Loves to go fast.” Ryan Clapp<br />“Quick edge-to-edge, confident at speed. <br /><br /></p></div>
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<div class="photo_credit">Photo by: <span>SKI Magazine Editor</span></div>
<h4 class="title">Magnum 7.6 (2010)</h4>
<div class="caption">Score: 38.33<p>Comments:<br />“Quick, nimble, but still floats very well on crud. Does have a speed limit, though.” Hisham Barradah<br />“Sweet spot in the center of the turn. Really wants to carve a nice, narrow arc. A little bouncy on crud. Holds a nice edge on ice.” Colleen Dannels<br />“Great carver, great rebound, exciting ski.” Greg Burke<br /><br /></p></div>
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<div class="image"><img src="http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/imagecache/enlarged_image/_images/200912/Blizz_Viva_7.6.jpg" alt="Viva 7.6 (2010)" title="" width="1000" height="1000" class="imagecache imagecache-enlarged_image"/></div>
<div class="photo_credit">Photo by: <span>SKI Magazine Editor</span></div>
<h4 class="title">Viva 7.6 (2010)</h4>
<div class="caption">Score: 38.25<p>Comments:<br />“It’s the Little Black Dress!” Kristin Casey<br />“A little squirrely on me.” Meghan Ruby<br />“Makes a great turn in crud.” Carol Stephens<br />“Nice and stable and also quick-turning. Holds great on ice.” Liz O’Mara<br /><br /></p></div>
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http://www.skinet.com/ski/galleries/peoples-ski-test-2010-blizzard#commentsCompetitionGearAlpineSkisSpeedCruiserGear PhotosBlizzardCURRENT_SITE106165http://www.skinet.com/CURRENT_SITE/files/_images/200912/Blizz_GForce_Supersonic.jpg106166G-Force Supersonic (2010)
<p>Score: 41.80</p><p>Comments:</p><p>“Loved it. Seemed like it could do anything.” <br />“Loved this ski. Does it all.” R. Cleary<br />“Energetic, but very stable. A pleasure to ride.” Michael Bradley<br />“Best Ski Ever. Does everything. (Well, no powder here.) Great!” R. Cleary (Day 2)<br /><br /></p>
Word is getting out about the G-Force Supersonic, judging by the path testers beat to the Blizzard tent. It was among the most-tried models in the test. Testers also gravitated toward the Magnum series of all-mountain midfats, particularly the 8.1.gallery106166http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/_images/200912/Blizz_GForce_Supersonic.jpgG-Force Supersonic (2010)
<p>Score: 41.80</p><p>Comments:</p><p>“Loved it. Seemed like it could do anything.” <br />“Loved this ski. Does it all.” R. Cleary<br />“Energetic, but very stable. A pleasure to ride.” Michael Bradley<br />“Best Ski Ever. Does everything. (Well, no powder here.) Great!” R. Cleary (Day 2)<br /><br /></p>
106168http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/_images/200912/Blizz_Magnum_8.1.jpgMagnum 8.1 (2010)
<p>Score: 33.85</p><p>Comments:<br />“Great all-around ski. Loves to go fast.” Ryan Clapp<br />“Quick edge-to-edge, confident at speed. <br /><br /></p>
106167http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/_images/200912/Blizz_Magnum_7.6.jpgMagnum 7.6 (2010)
<p>Score: 38.33</p><p>Comments:<br />“Quick, nimble, but still floats very well on crud. Does have a speed limit, though.” Hisham Barradah<br />“Sweet spot in the center of the turn. Really wants to carve a nice, narrow arc. A little bouncy on crud. Holds a nice edge on ice.” Colleen Dannels<br />“Great carver, great rebound, exciting ski.” Greg Burke<br /><br /></p>
106169http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/_images/200912/Blizz_Viva_7.6.jpgViva 7.6 (2010)
<p>Score: 38.25</p><p>Comments:<br />“It’s the Little Black Dress!” Kristin Casey<br />“A little squirrely on me.” Meghan Ruby<br />“Makes a great turn in crud.” Carol Stephens<br />“Nice and stable and also quick-turning. Holds great on ice.” Liz O’Mara<br /><br /></p>
Wed, 30 Dec 2009 15:57:03 +0000kimberlyjaibeekman106165 at http://www.skinet.com/skiSKI mag’s Super Demo Goes Off at Okemohttp://www.skinet.com/ski/galleries/ski-mag%E2%80%99s-super-demo-goes-okemo?lnk=rss&loc=cruiser
<!--paging_filter--><p>Gear companies show off their skis; citizen testers get to work</p>
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<div class="photo_credit">Photo by: <span>Donald Dill</span></div>
<div class="caption">“I remember when gear demo days used to be a big deal, then they got kind of lame because resorts started only inviting brands that they sell in their shops,” says Bryce Davidson. “This is like what it used to be. Lots of different brands, plenty of different models. You should do this every year.”</div>
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<div class="photo_credit">Photo by: <span>Donald Dill</span></div>
<div class="caption">We could’ve hugged Bryce when he said that, because those were our thoughts exactly when we decided to hold SKI Mag’s first Super Demo and Citizen’s Ski Test at Okemo last weekend, Dec. 12–13. As Bryce, a citizen tester, has noticed, demo weekends just aren’t what they used to be back when we were learning to ski. We want to change that.</div>
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<div class="photo_credit">Photo by: <span>Donald Dill</span></div>
<div class="caption">More than 300 readers registered online at skimag.com to take part in the Super Demo; almost a hundred more registered onsite. Some just demoed, content to try a few models. Some took the business of testing for us very seriously. (We collected almost 400 test cards over two days.) All in all, working out of Okemo’s Jackson Gore base area, we skied more than 300 demo/test models.&nbsp;</div>
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<div class="caption">Volkl, Nordica, Blizzard, Rossignol, Dynastar, Head, Kastle, Elan, Salomon and Atomic brought their boards. For good measure, we even had Knee Binding, Thule and the guys from Boston-based Bean Snowboards. We missed K2 and Fischer—both wanted to be there, but just didn’t have the staff on such a busy weekend. Maybe next year. Meanwhile, in the coming days, we’ll have results and some rankings from our citizen testers.</div>
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<div class="photo_credit">Photo by: <span>Donald Dill</span></div>
<div class="caption">And our new buddy Bryce is actually a Stratton passholder, and was headed up there when he decided to demo a few skis instead. (He left his suburban Hartford, Conn., home before dawn Saturday and was already on his third pair of skis when we rode the lift with him at 10 a.m.) “I buy skis about every two years and I like to check them out before I make a decision,” he says. “My kids got all new stuff last year, so this year, it’s my turn.” More than 300 readers registered online at skimag.com to take part in the Super Demo; almost a hundred more registered onsite.</div>
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<div class="photo_credit">Photo by: <span>Donald Dill</span></div>
<div class="caption">Marker Rocks!&nbsp; Proceeds from the sale of this guitar will go to the Shane McConkey's wife and kids.</div>
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<div class="caption">SKI's Marketing Coordinator, Jessica Petrey, traveled to Okemo for the event.</div>
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<div class="caption">More smiles over Volkl's new skis</div>
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http://www.skinet.com/ski/galleries/ski-mag%E2%80%99s-super-demo-goes-okemo#commentsSnow PhotosGearSki Resort LifeAlpineSkisFreerideSpeedCruiserIntermediatePowder: WidePowder: Super-WideGear PhotosAtomicBlizzardEast CoastNordicaRossignolSalomonTecnicaThuleVermont VolklOkemoCURRENT_SITE105815http://www.skinet.com/CURRENT_SITE/files/_images/200912/DSC_9554.jpg105825DSC_9554.jpg
<p>We could’ve hugged Bryce when he said that, because those were our thoughts exactly when we decided to hold SKI Mag’s first Super Demo and Citizen’s Ski Test at Okemo last weekend, Dec. 12–13. As Bryce, a citizen tester, has noticed, demo weekends just aren’t what they used to be back when we were learning to ski. We want to change that.</p>
Gear companies show off their skis; citizen testers get to workgallery105818http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/_images/200912/_DSC4961.jpgDonald Dill_DSC4961.jpg
<p>“I remember when gear demo days used to be a big deal, then they got kind of lame because resorts started only inviting brands that they sell in their shops,” says Bryce Davidson. “This is like what it used to be. Lots of different brands, plenty of different models. You should do this every year.”</p>
105825http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/_images/200912/DSC_9554.jpgDonald DillDSC_9554.jpg
<p>We could’ve hugged Bryce when he said that, because those were our thoughts exactly when we decided to hold SKI Mag’s first Super Demo and Citizen’s Ski Test at Okemo last weekend, Dec. 12–13. As Bryce, a citizen tester, has noticed, demo weekends just aren’t what they used to be back when we were learning to ski. We want to change that.</p>
105817http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/_images/200912/_DSC4955.jpgDonald Dill_DSC4955.jpg
<p>More than 300 readers registered online at skimag.com to take part in the Super Demo; almost a hundred more registered onsite. Some just demoed, content to try a few models. Some took the business of testing for us very seriously. (We collected almost 400 test cards over two days.) All in all, working out of Okemo’s Jackson Gore base area, we skied more than 300 demo/test models.&nbsp;</p>
105827http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/_images/200912/DSC_9559.jpgDonald DillDSC_9559.jpg105828http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/_images/200912/DSC_9560.jpgDonald DillDSC_9560.jpg
<p>Volkl, Nordica, Blizzard, Rossignol, Dynastar, Head, Kastle, Elan, Salomon and Atomic brought their boards. For good measure, we even had Knee Binding, Thule and the guys from Boston-based Bean Snowboards. We missed K2 and Fischer—both wanted to be there, but just didn’t have the staff on such a busy weekend. Maybe next year. Meanwhile, in the coming days, we’ll have results and some rankings from our citizen testers.</p>
105824http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/_images/200912/DSC_0534.jpgDonald DillDSC_0534.jpg
<p>And our new buddy Bryce is actually a Stratton passholder, and was headed up there when he decided to demo a few skis instead. (He left his suburban Hartford, Conn., home before dawn Saturday and was already on his third pair of skis when we rode the lift with him at 10 a.m.) “I buy skis about every two years and I like to check them out before I make a decision,” he says. “My kids got all new stuff last year, so this year, it’s my turn.” More than 300 readers registered online at skimag.com to take part in the Super Demo; almost a hundred more registered onsite. Some just demoed, content to try a few models. Some took the business of testing for us very seriously. (We collected almost 400 test cards over two days.) All in all, working out of Okemo’s Jackson Gore base area, we skied more than 300 demo/test models.</p>
105816http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/_images/200912/_DSC4951.jpgDonald Dill_DSC4951.jpg105823http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/_images/200912/DSC_0526.jpgDonald DillDSC_0526.jpg105822http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/_images/200912/_DSC4970.jpgDonald Dill_DSC4970.jpg
<p>Marker Rocks!&nbsp; Proceeds from the sale of this guitar will go to the Shane McConkey's wife and kids.</p>
105821http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/_images/200912/_DSC4967.jpgDonald Dill_DSC4967.jpg105829http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/_images/200912/DSC_9562.jpgDonald DillDSC_9562.jpg105819http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/_images/200912/_DSC4962.jpgDonald Dill_DSC4962.jpg
<p>SKI's Marketing Coordinator, Jessica Petrey, traveled to Okemo for the event.</p>
105820http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/_images/200912/_DSC4964.jpgDonald Dill_DSC4964.jpg
<p>More smiles over Volkl's new skis</p>
105826http://www.skinet.com/ski/files/_images/200912/DSC_9558.jpgDonald DillDSC_9558.jpgMon, 14 Dec 2009 20:52:20 +0000kimberlyjaibeekman105815 at http://www.skinet.com/skiVolkl Tierra (2010)http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/volkl-tierra-2010?lnk=rss&loc=cruiser
<!--paging_filter--><p>The Tierra incorporates Völkl’s new knee-safety technology: A flat stance makes for a safer angle, and a <br />narrower tail makes for less tugging at the end of the turn. What our testers noticed, however, was even more damp Völkl power and edge-bite; a straighter leg can really step on the gas. A few griped that the new version wasn’t as comfortable, especially in bumps, but most of our aggressive women agreed with Livran: “Slick, sharp—a wild good time.”</p>
http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/volkl-tierra-2010#commentsGearAlpineCruiserCrud PerformanceHard Snow GripStability at SpeedVolklCURRENT_SITE100343http://www.skinet.com/CURRENT_SITE/files/_images/200908/volkl_tierra_thumb.jpg100775volkl tierra thumb 2010Category: Women's Cruiser;
Category ranking: No. 4;
Average score: 3.51;
Balance of skills: 3.69;
Best for: Amazing grip on the groomed;
Not for: Bumps. The Tierra isn’t the quickest stick. product_skiThu, 23 Jul 2009 20:56:33 +0000Sjberman100343 at http://www.skinet.com/skiNordica Drive (2010)http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/nordica-drive-2010?lnk=rss&loc=cruiser
<!--paging_filter--><p>When we test gear, many manufacturers only have one test model, and it can be the wrong size. That was the case with the Drive, which our taller testers felt was too short. Still, the Drive excelled: It dived down the fall line, bit through ice, floated through pow and snapped back with great energy and predictability. Slightly wider than last year’s, the new Drive has a stable feel, and a go-anywhere attitude that encourages off-piste forays. “Delivers polished turns and a confident ride,” said Moscarella.</p>
http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/nordica-drive-2010#commentsGearAlpineCruiserForgivenessHard Snow GripNordicaCURRENT_SITE100338http://www.skinet.com/CURRENT_SITE/files/_images/200908/nordica_drive_thumb.jpg100761nordica drive thumb 2010Category: Women's Cruiser;
Category ranking: No. 3;
Average score: 3.53;
Balance of skills: 3.54;
Best for: Baring its teeth on ice;
Not for: Deep powder; it has a heavy, grippy feel. product_skiThu, 23 Jul 2009 20:47:57 +0000Sjberman100338 at http://www.skinet.com/skiFree Luv (2010)http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/free-luv-2010?lnk=rss&loc=cruiser
<!--paging_filter--><p>You may think you have to choose between a ski that does one thing exceptionally well and one that does everything fairly well. Enter the Free Luv, which should have its price marked up for saving you the deliberation. With solid scores across the board, it proves you can have it all. It’s easy, fun, strong, stable, energetic, playful and serious, with an ability to adapt to all input and terrain—except ice, where it washes out. “This ski inspires you to go more places by being so versatile,” said Thys.&nbsp;</p>
http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/free-luv-2010#commentsGearAlpineCruiserForgivenessHard Snow GripK2CURRENT_SITE100335http://www.skinet.com/CURRENT_SITE/files/_images/200908/k2_free_luv_thumb.jpg100746k2 free luv thumb 2010Category: Women's Cruiser;
Category ranking: No. 5;
Average score 3.34;
Balance of skills: 3.36;
Best for: A Westerner’s one-ski quiver;
Not for: East Coast technicians: It’s too forgiving. product_skiThu, 23 Jul 2009 20:41:35 +0000Sjberman100335 at http://www.skinet.com/skiDynastar Exclusive Fluid (2010)http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/dynastar-exclusive-fluid-2010?lnk=rss&loc=cruiser
<!--paging_filter--><p>These are like your favorite sneakers: They might not shave seconds off your time, but they sure are comfortable. With an easygoing personality, the Fluid also makes a fine everyday companion: It listens to your input, never interrupts and is happy to accompany you anywhere. It’s not the best choice for aggressive East Coast ex-racer types—it prefers a mellow vibe—but for a quintessential cruiser, it’s fine. “Take it easy, slide them around, and let them do the work,” said Sheinberg.</p>
http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/dynastar-exclusive-fluid-2010#commentsGearAlpineCruiserForgivenessMoguls PerformanceQuicknessShort TurnsStability at SpeedDynastarCURRENT_SITE100329http://www.skinet.com/CURRENT_SITE/files/_images/200908/dyn_ex_fluid_thumb.jpg100734dynastar exclusive fluid thumb 2010Category: Women's Cruiser;
Category ranking No. 6;
Average score 3.27;
Balance of skills: 3.39;
Best for: Enjoying the scenery;
Not for: Someone who wants a damp, burly skiproduct_skiThu, 23 Jul 2009 20:29:14 +0000Sjberman100329 at http://www.skinet.com/skiBlizzard Viva 7.6 IQ (2010)http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/blizzard-viva-76-iq-2010?lnk=rss&loc=cruiser
<!--paging_filter--><p>The Viva is extraordinary. With top scores in every criterion, Blizzard sweeps the Cruiser category this year. This ski zings with personality without ever being overbearing. It’s extremely easy to ski, but holds a line so unfailingly that you can’t help but go a little faster, a little deeper, a little steeper. And while it will energetically do your bidding—carve trenches or ease through bumps—on one account it won’t budge: This ski will make you have fun. Period. “You will ski well on these,” said Lewis.</p>
http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/blizzard-viva-76-iq-2010#commentsGearAlpineCruiserForgivenessMoguls PerformanceQuicknessShort TurnsBlizzardCURRENT_SITE100323http://www.skinet.com/CURRENT_SITE/files/_images/200908/blizz_viva7.6IQ_thumb.jpg100730blizzard viva 7.6 IQ thumb 2010Category: Women's Cruiser;
Category ranking No. 1;
Average score 3.96;
Balance of skills: 3.83;
Best for: Cranking tight turns on hardpack;
Not for: The lethargic or unathletic: It’s got energy.product_skiThu, 23 Jul 2009 20:17:36 +0000Sjberman100323 at http://www.skinet.com/skiAtomic Cloud 9 (2010)http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/atomic-cloud-9-2010?lnk=rss&loc=cruiser
<!--paging_filter--><p>This ski wants to chew up the hill. With classic Atomic bite, the Cloud 9 loves to corkscrew slalom turns down the groomed. It’s on the precise and stiff side, but not in a punishing way: Rather than smoothing over your mistakes, the Cloud 9 capitalizes on your strengths, edging you in the right direction. In other words, it may not be as easy to ski as some of the others in this category, but its rewards are that much greater. “Smooth and flowy, with good rebound energy,” said Forland.</p>
http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/atomic-cloud-9-2010#commentsGearAlpineCruiserHard Snow GripMoguls PerformanceQuicknessShort TurnsStability at SpeedAtomicCURRENT_SITE100320http://www.skinet.com/CURRENT_SITE/files/_images/200908/atomic_cloud_9_thumb.jpg100714atomic cloud 9 thumb 2010Category: Women's Cruiser;
Category ranking: No. 2;
Average score: 3.55;
Balance of skills: 3.83;
Best for: Holding an edge at speed;
Not for: The sidelines. This ski likes action. product_skiThu, 23 Jul 2009 20:09:11 +0000Sjberman100320 at http://www.skinet.com/skiVolkl Unlimited AC30 Titanium (2010)http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/volkl-unlimited-ac30-titanium-2010?lnk=rss&loc=cruiser
<p>If your definition of cruising begins at 30 mph, you and the AC30 will get along. Völkl touts its versatility in terms of both terrain and snow conditions, and despite its floaty width, testers were impressed by its edge-grip and confidence at speed on flat snow.&nbsp; It can be ponderous in short turns and a little less playful than others in the category in powder and crud. But for swift, graceful arcs on corduroy—firm or soft—it’s hard to beat.&nbsp; “Nicely balanced, with a good stable platform,” said Moffatt.</p>
http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/volkl-unlimited-ac30-titanium-2010#commentsGearAlpineCruiserCrud PerformanceHard Snow GripStability at SpeedVolklCURRENT_SITE100316http://www.skinet.com/CURRENT_SITE/files/_images/200907/SKI0909_SKI_VO_AC20.jpg100073Volkl Unlimited AC 20 2009-10
<p><strong>MSRP</strong> $825 w/binding</p><p><strong>Dimensions</strong> 118-74-103</p><p><strong>Category ranking</strong> No. 3 (tie)</p><p><strong>Average score</strong> 3.28</p><p>Two things to know: The AC20 gets one of the highest scores in the category for stability at speed, and one of the lowest (among medal winners) for forgiveness. That makes it a dubious choice for the unskilled, but a great value for accomplished and athletic intermediates who expect to improve. In short, it has the highest high end of any ski in the group. And for security on harder snow, it can’t be beat.&nbsp; “Light, but still solid and precise, and turn-entry is effortless,” said Hochman.</p><p><strong>Best for</strong> An improving carver looking for speed</p><p><strong>Not for</strong> Improving your powder game</p>
Category: Men's Cruiser;
Category ranking: No. 7;
Average score: 3.11;
Balance of skills: 2.65;
Best For: High-speed carving on soft groomers;
Not For: Slalom-ready quicknessproduct_skiThu, 23 Jul 2009 19:54:17 +0000Sjberman100316 at http://www.skinet.com/skiRossignol Avenger 82 TI (2010)http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/rossignol-avenger-82-ti-2010?lnk=rss&loc=cruiser
<!--paging_filter--><p>The name seems misleading on a ski this fun-loving. In fact, the 82-mm-wide Avenger might be the most comfortable ski in the group—partly due to that broad, stable platform and partly due to its uniquely forgiving tip. With metal laminates and a strong tail, it’s as eager for speed as you are. But balance is its defining trait, and while it topped no single criterion, it put up high marks across the board. “Doesn’t demand huge effort to make great turns, but loves to ramp it up, too,” said Lewis.</p>
http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/rossignol-avenger-82-ti-2010#commentsGearAlpineCruiserForgivenessPowder PerformanceStability at SpeedRossignolCURRENT_SITE100310http://www.skinet.com/CURRENT_SITE/files/_images/200908/rossi_aven82Ti_thumb.jpg100709rossignol aven 82 Ti thumbCategory: Men's Cruiser;
Category ranking: No. 3 (tie);
Average score: 3.31;
Balance of skills: 3.37;
Best for: All-terrain versatility, emphasis on groomers;
Not for: Highly technical short-turn carvingproduct_skiThu, 23 Jul 2009 19:41:24 +0000Sjberman100310 at http://www.skinet.com/skiNordica Hot Rod Nitrous CA (2010)http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/nordica-hot-rod-nitrous-ca-2010?lnk=rss&loc=cruiser
<!--paging_filter--><p>The tester favorite earns praise for its balance of performance attributes. Carbon-reinforced laminates give it outstanding quickness, and it’s eminently calm at high speeds. In fact, testers preferred the CA to the metal-reinforced and more expensive Nitrous TI ($1,249), which medaled here two years ago. With a wide, stable platform and a broad tip that dives obediently into arcs, it’s a natural carver with excellent soft-snow skills. “Makes you feel like a better skier,” said Hogen.</p>
http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/nordica-hot-rod-nitrous-ca-2010#commentsGearAlpineCruiserHard Snow GripMoguls PerformanceQuicknessShort TurnsStability at SpeedNordicaCURRENT_SITE100308http://www.skinet.com/CURRENT_SITE/files/_images/200908/nordica_nitrousCA_thumb.jpg100767nordica hot rod nitrous thumb 2010Category: Men's Cruiser;
Category ranking: No. 1;
Average score: 3.51;
Balance of skills: 3.59;
Best For: All-day comfort with exacting performance;
Not For: Frozen corduroy or blue East Coast iceproduct_skiThu, 23 Jul 2009 19:33:09 +0000Sjberman100308 at http://www.skinet.com/skiKastle MX78 (2010)http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/kastle-mx78-2010?lnk=rss&loc=cruiser
<!--paging_filter--><p>Kastle layups are classic: laminate construction, wood cores, metal top and bottom. The one difference is rubber—a full sheet beneath the topsheet, plus strips over the edges. The feel is distinctive—smooth and quiet—and particularly well-suited to comfortable cruising. Meanwhile, the tip cutaway reduces weight and further dampens vibrations. Damp is good, as long as it’s not lifeless, and the 78 puts up good scores for rebound energy. “Powerful, silky and dynamic,” said Hogen.</p>
http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/kastle-mx78-2010#commentsGearAlpineCruiserCrud PerformanceHard Snow GripStability at SpeedKastleCURRENT_SITE100303http://www.skinet.com/CURRENT_SITE/files/_images/200908/kastle_mx78_thumb.jpg100756kastle mx78 thumb 2010Category: Men's Cruiser;
Category ranking: No. 5 (tie);
Average score: 3.12;
Balance of skills: 3.03;
Best for: Combination of fluidity and quickness;
Not for: Crud, where it gets nervousproduct_skiThu, 23 Jul 2009 19:24:32 +0000Sjberman100303 at http://www.skinet.com/skiApache Recon MX (2010)http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/apache-recon-mx-2010?lnk=rss&loc=cruiser
<!--paging_filter--><p>We hardly needed to test the Recon—longtime darling of the test and two-time Ski of the Year. Good thing we did anyway. As with the Apache Xplorer (see Freeride), last year’s addition of the Marker Inter-Pivot heel lends <br />a hard-snow integrity that earlier Recons didn’t have. Top scores in flotation and forgiveness come as no <br />surprise. But No. 1 in stability at speed? Like we said: <br />not your daddy’s Recon. “Does everything: long/stable, short/quick or medium/smooth,” said Rogan.</p>
http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/apache-recon-mx-2010#commentsGearAlpineCruiserCrud PerformanceForgivenessStability at SpeedK2CURRENT_SITE100299http://www.skinet.com/CURRENT_SITE/files/_images/200908/k2_recon_thumb.jpg100750k2 apache recon thumb 2010Category: Men's Cruiser;
Category ranking: No. 2;
Average score: 3.32;
Balance of skills: 3.38;
Best for: Snow-condition versatility;
Not for: The hardest of Eastern iceproduct_skiThu, 23 Jul 2009 19:08:29 +0000Sjberman100299 at http://www.skinet.com/skiDynastar Contact Cross TI (2010)http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/dynastar-contact-cross-ti-2010?lnk=rss&loc=cruiser
<!--paging_filter--><p>Look carefully at the dimensions. If you’re not actually carving turns (not naming names here) or at least dead-set on finally learning to, look elsewhere, because the Cross Ti’s talents will be lost on you. But if you live to tip and rip, the shapeliest ski in the category lives up to expectations. It hooks up greedily, hugs the snow with metal-laminate suppleness, and then finishes every turn with best-in-class rebound across the fall line. “Flex and sidecut work together to make magic,” said Lewis.</p>
http://www.skinet.com/ski/gear/dynastar-contact-cross-ti-2010#commentsGearAlpineCruiserForgivenessHard Snow GripMoguls PerformanceQuicknessShort TurnsDynastarCURRENT_SITE100295http://www.skinet.com/CURRENT_SITE/files/_images/200908/dyn_contact_ti_thumb.jpg100733dynastar contact cross ti thumb 2010Category: Men's Cruiser;
Category ranking: No. 5 (tie);
Average score: 3.12;
Balance of skills: 3.08;
Best for: Tip, rip, repeat: a carving machine;
Not for: Skidded turns or bumpsproduct_skiThu, 23 Jul 2009 18:58:01 +0000Sjberman100295 at http://www.skinet.com/ski